The 500-HP Porsche Panamera (UPDATE)

We’ve heard a lot of rumors about the 2010 Porsche Panamera. In 2007 and early 2008, we weren’t sure whether this four-door sports sedan would be powered by diesel, gas or hybrid technology. At this year’s LA Auto Show, however, at least some of the rumors were put to rest.

The Porsche Panamera will debut in 2009 as a 2010 model. Its first iteration will be in the forms of the Panamera S and Panamera Turbo, packed with a 4.8-liter V8 engine that delivers 400 horsepower and 500 horsepower, respectively. Although a V6 electric hybrid Porsche Panamera is in the works, it won’t be ready in time for the 2009 lineup. A 3.6-liter Porsche Panamera V6 with 300 horsepower is also in the design phase. Auto pundits doubt a diesel version will see production.

Porsche traditionalists have frowned upon this four-door supercar; however, anyone who’s ever had to sit in the back of a Porsche will readily acknowledge that it’s hard to fault the 16.3-foot length the Porsche Panamera will provide. To put this behemoth into perspective, a BMW 5-series is a mere 15.9 feet long.
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